This post is sponsored and contributed by Patch In Town, a Patch Brand Partner.

Seasonal & Holidays

Where To Skate, Ski And Sled In And Around Gilroy

Feeling inspired by the Winter Games? Here are a few ways to get out, stay active and make the most of the season!

Ready for some winter adventure? From indoor skating to easy day trips for skiing, sledding and tubing, here’s where to find winter fun around Gilroy.
Ready for some winter adventure? From indoor skating to easy day trips for skiing, sledding and tubing, here’s where to find winter fun around Gilroy. (Shutterstock)

Feeling inspired by the excitement of the Winter Games? You don’t have to travel far to get in on the seasonal spirit. Around Gilroy, you’ll find places where families can lace up skates, enjoy indoor winter fun, or plan easy day trips to nearby skiing, tubing or sledding spots. Whether you’re looking to stay close to home or head out for a weekend adventure, these ideas can help you make the most of the season. Just be sure to double-check hours, weather conditions and reservation details before heading out.


⛸️ Ice Skating & Indoor Winter Fun

Sharks Ice at San Jose

Address: 1500 S 10th St, San Jose, CA 95112

Phone: (408) 279-6000

Find out what's happening in Gilroyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Details: Sharks Ice at San Jose is a large, well-established indoor rink offering public skating sessions, lessons, and hockey programming throughout the winter. It’s about a 35 to 45-minute drive from Gilroy and is the most reliable nearby option for true indoor ice skating.


Cupertino Ice Center

Address: 10123 N Wolfe Rd #1020, Cupertino, CA 95014

Find out what's happening in Gilroyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Phone: (408) 446-2906

Details: Cupertino Ice Center features an indoor rink with scheduled public skate sessions and instructional programs. It’s about a 50 to 60-minute drive from Gilroy and works well as a second ice option in the South Bay.


🎿 Skiing, Snowboarding & Tubing — Day Trips

Dodge Ridge Ski Resort

Address: 1 Dodge Ridge Rd, Pinecrest, CA 95364

Phone: (209) 965-3474

Details: Dodge Ridge offers downhill skiing, snowboarding, and snow play areas supported by consistent snowmaking and Sierra snowfall. It’s about a 2 hour 45-minute to 3 hour drive from Gilroy, making it one of the closer full-scale mountain options.


Bear Valley Mountain Resort

Address: 2280 State Hwy 4, Bear Valley, CA 95223

Phone: (209) 753-2301

Details: Bear Valley provides skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing when conditions allow, with a laid-back, approachable mountain feel. It’s about a 3 to 3.5-hour drive from Gilroy and works best as a longer winter day trip.


☃️ Outdoor Play & Sledding Spots

Winter in Gilroy tends to be mild and dry, but on rare cold snaps or trips just outside town, outdoor spaces still offer a refreshing seasonal reset. Even without snow, open parks and hills provide room to move, walk, and enjoy cooler air.

Gilroy spots to consider:

  • Christmas Hill Park becomes a natural go-to during winter, with open fields and gentle rolling terrain that work well for casual outdoor play and long winter walks. Its central location makes it easy to visit without planning a full outing. (Source: City of Gilroy, CA)

Further outdoors:

  • Mount Madonna County Park — For a more wintry feel and higher elevation scenery, Mount Madonna County Park offers broad open space, forested trails, and cooler temperatures. It’s about a 20 to 25-minute drive from Gilroy and provides a peaceful outdoor escape even when snow stays in the mountains.

Bundle up, stay safe and have fun wherever winter takes you!

This content is brought to our community by T-Mobile.

This post is sponsored and contributed by Patch In Town, a Patch Brand Partner.